Glucosamine for dogs - Liquid Glucosamine
Liquid glucosamine is safe for both human and canine use and can be used to repair joint tissue.As we get older our joints can become stiff, inflamed and painful on movement.This is the same for many dogs, especially the larger breeds and certain types of small dogs.
Liquid glucosamine is ideal for dogs as it’s very easily absorbed and the benefits can be seen for most within the first month of use. There are many dog joint supplements on the market which can be taken in or tablet form or injection. Liquid glucosamine for dogs is generally a good option for pet owners for the following reasons:
- It is tasteless and can be added to food or liquid
- Reasonably priced and bought ‘over the counter’.
- Easy to administer
- Is effective usually with the first month
- 1 dose of liquid glucosamine is equivalent to 6 tablets and generally a more convenient method,
Ensuring you get a good quality liquid glucosamine is necessary to give you dog the best treatment possible. The main benefit of taking liquid glucosamine is that it not only eases pain, inflammation and joint stiffness but also helps to rebuild damaged joint tissue.
Arthritis is experienced by many mature adults and animals. The larger the individual the more strain on the joint and likely hood of damage from wear and tear.
Arthritis comes from the Greek word Arthron meaning ‘joint’ and ‘it is’ from the Latin word inflammation.
Osteo-arthritis is the most common form of Arthritis although the term actually covers more than 100 medical conditions.
What causes Arthritis?
Within a joint one bone moves over the other bone with the stretchy ligaments holding the bones together. The ligaments are similar to elastic bands. The muscles around the joint either contract or relax in order to allow movement of the joint. The cartilage covers the surface of the bone to stop the bones rubbing against each other and helps the joint to move easily without pain. The capsule surrounding the joint and joint cavity is filled with synovial fluid which lubricates the joint.
When something goes wrong with the cartilage, bone, synovial fluid etc., is when you may have arthritis. The same is true for dogs.
What are the signs of Arthritis in dogs?
Usually and older dog as is the same with humans (over the age of 55 years in industrialized countries).
- Abnormal gait.
- Larger breeds and heavier dogs.
- Difficulty in standing or sitting
- A reduced appetite
- Stiffness
- Sensitivity to touch
- Change in temperament.
What is the cure for arthritis in dogs?
Like humans, there is no cure, however you can give your animal treatment to relieve their pain and discomfort and to aid rejuvenation of the joint tissue
Where to seek help?
If you take your pet to a Vet then x-rays and /or ultrasound can be taken and anti-inflammatories given as well as advice on diet and general health maintenance.
Many Vets do use liquid glucosamine to reduce pain, swelling and stiffness in arthritic joints in dogs.
What are the side effects of liquid glucosamine?
Mild side effects that have been reported include diarrhoea, gas, constipation and drowsiness.
The benefits are generally believed to outweigh any side effects.
- Liquid glucosamine also has Vitamins C, E and A as well as essential fatty acid – omega 3.
- It helps to reduce inflammation
- Protects existing cartilage
- Reduces pain.
How much liquid glucosamine to give to my dog?
Usually 20mg per pound of body weight. However, if you are unsure it is wise to seek advice from a Vet.
Summary
Liquid glucosamine is not a wonder drug or curative medicine for arthritis in your dog. In many cases it will improve your animal’s pain and movement within the first month. If you are not seeing an improvement then check the dosage with a vet surgeon. It is also important to buy a good quality liquid glucosamine product if you want to see ‘real’ results for you dog. Synflex liquid glucosamine is a very well-known brand with a good reputation in the canine world. Once you start giving your dog liquid glucosamine you need to continue to do this. Some pet owners give slightly lower doses of liquid glucosamine to their animals around middle age as a prophylactic treatment against the symptoms of arthritis.
